A rapist has been jailed for life following a violent attack on a victim in Chatham.
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On 27 March 2021, Thomas Mulroy was at his home address with a woman when he suddenly assaulted and then raped her. The victim tried to call a friend on her phone in an attempt to seek help, but Mulroy damaged it and prevented her from leaving the property.
The victim later escaped and immediately made her way to Medway police station to report her ordeal.
Mulroy, of New Road, Chatham, was arrested in the early hours of 28 March. He was charged with two counts of rape, assault occasioning actual bodily harm and criminal damage.
At Maidstone Crown Court, Mulroy was convicted of the rapes following a trial, having previously pleaded guilty to the other indictments.
The 56-year-old was sentenced on Friday 27 September 2024. He will have to serve a minimum of nine years and three months, at which point a risk assessment will be completed as to whether he can be considered for parole.
Detective Constable Jane Lowe, said:
‘The victim in this case has shown exceptional courage throughout proceedings, whilst assisting us to bring this abhorrent criminal to justice. The judge also commended her bravery.
‘She was subjected to an appalling attack by a depraved and dangerous predator and our officers have been committed to providing her with the best possible support.
‘Despite the irrefutable evidence against him, Mulroy chose to put the victim through the further ordeal of a trial and I am pleased he has now received a substantial prison sentence. I sincerely hope the victim can achieve some closure now this criminal is safely behind bars.’